An Garda Síochána: why it’s a job worth doing

A new Garda Recruitment Competition is going live this September. Take your opportunity to embark on a career that provides varied work with unique demands, where you’ll make a real difference. 

An Garda Síochána is a community-focused organisation with a mission of ‘Keeping People Safe’ with a dual role and responsibility for the provision of policing services and protecting the security of the State. 

Becoming a Garda

“For me, being a Garda means engaging with people, helping them, and making a tangible difference,” explains Garda Steven Carton. “Every hour is different, which is what drew me to the role.” To become a member of An Garda Síochána, Steven completed numerous pre-requisite assessments followed by training in Templemore and a two-year probationary period. 

Rewarding moments on the job

One standout moment in Steven’s career reminded him of why he pursued this role and why he would recommend it. Describing it as just another day on the job, Steven recalls an incident where a husband and wife had gone kayaking, but the man had a stroke while they were on the water and slumped over: “I attended the scene and managed to get him out of the kayak and into an ambulance in time to make a full recovery. Moments like this remind me why this job matters, but it’s also small moments like helping an elderly lady who has lost her purse — those simple acts of assistance are incredibly rewarding.” 

For me, being a Garda means
engaging with people, helping
them and making a tangible difference.

Career progression and training

Ongoing professional development is highly encouraged, and training does not stop after the probationary period is over, explains Steven. “Over the last 18 months, I have seen a real push in continuous learning and professional development, with new courses out all the time.” 

He adds: “An Garda Síochána is looking for everyone, not just your typical broad male figure. Diversity is valued, and anyone with the right mindset can thrive. Active listening is key, whether it’s listening to the public, a colleague or your sergeant.” 

Steven concludes: “You gain lifelong friends; your unit becomes family; and the role gives you structure and job security, which is especially important when you have two young children at home like me.”